The New York Knicks tried their best to make the Eastern Conference Finals this year despite the absence of All-Star Julius Randle. Jalen Brunson put on his Superman cape and carried the Knicks in the playoffs, posting 32.4 points and 7.5 assists per game despite dealing with an injury during the series against the Indiana Pacers.
Looking ahead to this summer, the Knicks will need to do some housekeeping to their roster. They will almost certainly sign OG Anunoby to a max deal this summer, as the player is likely to reject his $19,928,571 player option and sign a long-term contract. Starting center Isaiah Hartenstein is a free agent this summer and will likely be brought back at a maximum of $16.2 million for next season due to Early Bird Rights limitations.
Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson are both under contract until the end of next season and will likely receive long-term extensions as well, meaning the Knicks will take advantage of Alec Burks ($10,489,600) coming off the books. By trying to maneuver trades for Mitchell Robinson ($14,318,182) and Bojan Bogdanovic ($19,032,850) to create even more cap space and the ability to sign a top player this summer, the Knicks can target one of these 10 best free agents.
1. Paul George
2023-24 Season Statistics: 22.6 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $30-35 million, 3-year deal
Paul George, an elite two-way swingman, would be a significant addition to the New York Knicks in the 2024 offseason. Despite his numbers potentially declining as he approaches 35 years old towards the end of the next season, George’s impact on both ends of the court remains invaluable. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game on 41.3% from three.
The Knicks could benefit from his scoring prowess and perimeter defense, fitting seamlessly alongside Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and OG Anunoby. With Josh Hart playing as a small-ball power forward, George’s addition could position the Knicks as serious contenders, potentially challenging the Boston Celtics for the top seed in the Eastern Conference. A possible three-year deal in the $30-35 million range would not only solidify the Knicks’ lineup but also bring veteran leadership and playoff experience to a team on the rise as long as they can move Robinson and Bogdanovic’s contracts.
2. DeMar DeRozan
2023-24 Season Statistics: 24.0 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 5.3 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $25-$28 million, 3-year deal
DeMar DeRozan presents a compelling option for the New York Knicks in their search for a dynamic scoring threat. With a career marked by consistent scoring and improved playmaking, DeRozan’s ability to create and convert in the mid-range would diversify the Knicks’ offensive options.
His experience as a veteran leader could also positively impact a young Knicks team, providing mentorship and a winning mentality. While not an elite defender, DeRozan has shown improvement in this area, making him a well-rounded addition to Tom Thibodeau’s defensive-minded system. The suggested salary range of $25-$28 million over a 3-year deal appears reasonable for a player of his caliber, potentially with the Knicks moving Robinson or Bogdanovic’s contact and possibly No. 24 and No. 25 picks in the 2024 NBA Draft.
3. Klay Thompson
2023-24 Season Statistics: 17.9 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 2.3 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $20-25 million, 3-year deal
As one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, Klay Thompson’s ability to score from beyond the arc would greatly enhance the Knicks’ offensive versatility and floor spacing. His defensive skills, including his ability to guard multiple positions, would also bolster the team’s defensive efforts, aligning well with Tom Thibodeau’s defensive-minded coaching style.
Thompson’s championship pedigree and extensive playoff experience would provide invaluable leadership and mentorship for the Knicks’ young core, helping them navigate the pressures of postseason play. His fit alongside Julius Randle and other shooters would provide additional scoring options and create a more balanced offensive attack.
In terms of contract, a 3-year deal in the range of $20-$25 million seems reasonable, considering Thompson’s skill set and experience. This would allow the Knicks to secure his services while maintaining financial flexibility for future seasons. While his recent injury history is a concern, if Thompson can return to form, he would be a significant asset for the Knicks, potentially elevating them to contender status in the Eastern Conference.
4. James Harden
2023-24 Season Statistics: 16.6 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 8.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $25-30 million, 2-year deal
James Harden would bring a wealth of experience and elite playmaking skills to the New York Knicks, potentially transforming their offensive capabilities. Despite a slight decline in scoring, Harden’s ability to create shots for himself and his teammates remains elite, as shown by his 8.5 assists per game last season. His scoring versatility, including his three-point shooting and knack for drawing fouls, would provide a valuable offensive weapon alongside Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle.
As a third scoring option, Harden could thrive without the immense defensive attention he faced in previous seasons, making the Knicks a more dynamic team. His leadership and playoff experience could also prove invaluable for a relatively young Knicks roster looking to make deeper postseason runs.
A 2-year deal in the range of $25-$30 million would be a reasonable investment for Harden, allowing the Knicks to benefit from his talents while maintaining financial flexibility. A potential sign-and-trade involving Bojan Bogdanovic and draft picks could facilitate this move, ensuring the Knicks can accommodate Harden’s salary.
5. Tobias Harris
2023-24 Season Statistics: 17.2 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $18-23 million, 3-year deal
Tobias Harris would bring versatility and playoff experience to the New York Knicks. Despite being the odd man out in Philadelphia, Harris has proven himself as a reliable scorer both inside and outside. His ability to score from various spots on the floor would complement Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and OG Anunoby, providing the Knicks with a formidable offensive quartet.
Harris’ size and skill set would allow the Knicks to go small and fast-paced, capitalizing on opportunities in transition. His playoff experience would be beneficial for the Knicks, especially in guiding younger players during critical postseason moments. Harris’ fit alongside Josh Hart would enhance the team’s overall chemistry, adding another layer to their offensive and defensive strategies under Tom Thibodeau.
6. Buddy Hield
2023-24 Season Statistics: 12.1 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $17-$23 million, 3-year deal
Buddy Hield would bring elite shooting and scoring prowess to the New York Knicks, bolstering their three-point shooting capabilities and adding depth to their backcourt. As a career 40.0% shooter from beyond the arc and 38.6% this season, Hield’s ability to stretch the floor and create scoring opportunities would complement the playmaking of Jalen Brunson and the inside presence of Julius Randle.
His capacity to generate points quickly would make the Knicks’ offense more dynamic and difficult to defend, especially when paired with Brunson’s ability to feed shooters. Competing with Donte DiVincenzo for the starting shooting guard spot would also provide healthy competition and depth to the Knicks’ roster. Hield’s consistent shooting could make him a primary scoring threat on the perimeter, potentially opening up more space for Randle and others to operate inside.
7. Miles Bridges
2023-24 Season Statistics: 21.0 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 3.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $14-$18 million, 3-year deal
With impressive averages of 21.0 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game this season, Miles Bridges has shown he can contribute across multiple facets of the game. His ability to score efficiently and run the floor would provide the Knicks with a different dynamic, whether as a possible Sixth Man behind Julius Randle or as a starter in a small-ball lineup.
Bridges’ defensive potential adds another layer to his value, potentially fitting well within Tom Thibodeau’s defensive-oriented system. At just 26 years old, he represents a player who still has room for growth and improvement, making him an intriguing option for the Knicks.
Despite some off-court issues, Bridges has demonstrated resilience and maintained strong on-court performance, indicating he could thrive in the right environment. With a suggested salary range of $14-$18 million over a 3-year deal, Bridges’ contract would be relatively affordable for the Knicks, allowing them to invest in a young player with significant upside.
8. D’Angelo Russell
2023-24 Season Statistics: 18.0 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 6.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $18-$20 million, 3-year deal
D’Angelo Russell presents an intriguing option for the New York Knicks, offering a blend of scoring and playmaking that could complement Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle. With averages of 18.0 points and 6.3 assists per game last season, Russell has proven himself as a capable scorer and facilitator. His ability to create offense both as a scorer and a playmaker would provide significant relief for Brunson, allowing the Knicks to maintain offensive efficiency when he’s off the court.
Russell’s versatility as both a point guard and shooting guard makes him a valuable asset, offering lineup flexibility and depth. His potential to become a capable sixth man adds further value, providing stability and scoring off the bench. A sign-and-trade deal involving Bogdan Bogdanovic and draft picks could facilitate Russell’s acquisition, potentially providing a win-win scenario for both teams.
9. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
2023-24 Season Statistics: 10.1 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $15-$20 million, 3-year deal
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope offers the New York Knicks an opportunity to bolster their defense and add depth to their backcourt. Despite averaging 10.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game last season, Caldwell-Pope’s primary contribution comes on the defensive end, where his perimeter defense and ability to disrupt passing lanes have been notable.
With a possible salary range of $15-$20 million over a 3-year deal, he represents a relatively low-risk option for the Knicks, particularly if they are unable to secure bigger-name free agents. Caldwell-Pope’s potential pairing with OG Anunoby could form an elite defensive duo at the wing positions. However, it’s important to note that Caldwell-Pope may not be the Knicks’ top priority in free agency, as they may be focusing on acquiring bigger names to address their needs.
10. Malik Monk
2023-24 Season Statistics: 15.4 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 5.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Possible Salary Range: $15-17 million, 4-year deal
Malik Monk presents an intriguing option for the New York Knicks, offering scoring ability and versatility in the backcourt. With averages of 15.4 points and 5.1 assists per game last season, Monk has shown he can contribute as a scorer and playmaker. His potential to score 15+ points per game could make him a viable option in the Knicks’ starting lineup or as a dynamic sixth man off the bench.
Monk’s ability to fill it up from various spots on the floor would provide additional scoring depth behind Jalen Brunson and potentially alongside him in certain lineups. His experience as a sixth man could also be valuable, providing instant offense and energy off the bench when needed. A potential sign-and-trade deal with the Kings could facilitate Monk’s acquisition, ensuring both teams benefit from the transaction.
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